Does My Business Actually Need an App? An Honest Framework

We build apps, and we'll still tell you that most small businesses don't need one. Here's the framework we use to decide, so you don't spend on an app that nobody opens.

When an app makes sense

• Repeat use. Customers interact weekly or monthly: gyms, clinics, salons with loyalty, subscription services.
• Notifications drive revenue. Reminders, offers and updates that people actually want.
• Field or internal workflows. Techs updating jobs, photos and checklists from the road.
• Secure access. Patient, tenant or client portals with documents and payments.
• A product idea. The app is the business.

When a website is better

One-time or infrequent purchases, discovery-driven businesses, and anything where the customer won't install something for you. A fast website with online booking, click-to-call and a Google profile wins here.

What an app really involves

Design, iOS and/or Android development, a back end (accounts, data, payments, notifications), App Store and Play submission, and ongoing maintenance for OS updates. MVPs take 6–12 weeks; costs depend entirely on scope.

A middle path

Progressive web apps and well-built mobile websites deliver much of the app experience without the store. Often the right first step.

Our advice

Nail the website and Google presence first. If your customers use you repeatedly and notifications would help, scope an app. We'll tell you honestly which you need. See app development.